Dearest volunteers,

As we look forward to National Volunteer Week, April 18-24, I am reflecting on all the amazing work you've done this past year. In a year that can be described as chaotic, scary and difficult, the service and dedication of our Southwest Human Development volunteer corps has reminded me that this year has also been one of promise, hope and resilience.

On March 20, 2021, we completed one of our first in-person fundraising events since the pandemic hit, Walk With Me, a drive-thru celebration. On that beautiful Saturday morning, 25 volunteers joined us (outdoors, masked up and socially distanced) to pack goody bags, set up the space and to welcome our attendees with smiles, dancing and enthusiasm. As I looked around that morning, I couldn't help but smile in gratitude. Not just because people showed up, not just because things felt a little closer to "normal," but because through all these tough times, people are still helping.

One of the volunteers at Walk With Me told me they had been looking forward to the event for weeks, and it felt "normal to be able to help again." I was speechless as I took that statement in. I hope we can all get to a time and place where, like our volunteers, giving back is what everyone considers normal.

As we approach National Volunteer Week, I will continue to reflect on these memories and continue to seek out and provide opportunities for volunteers to make an impact in meaningful ways. Points of Light describes volunteers as "those who raise their hands to support people and communities when help is needed the most." Thank you for raising your hand time and again.

Yours in service,

To say things have changed in the past year would be an understatement. As many in our community modified most or all aspects of their lives, serving your community may be one of those things that has been tough to get back into. At Southwest Human Development, we're eager to reconnect with our volunteers, and so we're offering an opportunity to attend a 45-minute virtual Re-Orientation.

We'd like to "see your faces" and tell you about Southwest Human Development's work with children as well as hear from you about how you want to support our work with your time and talents going forward. Re-Orientation events will take place via Zoom, and we're offering several dates for your convenience.

Please register to attend here, and the link to join us will be sent to you upon registration. If your not comfortable using the Zoom platform, email Annette for assistance. Looking forward to seeing you and catching up soon!

Southwest Human Development is proud to partner with TransDev AZ. Our partners for more than four years, TransDev has sent volunteers to help in our warehouse, organized drives and supported our numerous campaigns. The photo to the left is their in-office display to advertise the Gingerbread Kids Holiday Gift Drive.

TransDev Senior Operations Supervisor Lori Sciame has been a true champion for Southwest Human Development, regularly going the extra mile to support our work with Arizona's children. In January, Lori organized a Share the Warmth drive, which collected 20 blankets, 77 pairs of socks, 26 hats, diapers, formula, baby wipes and towels for the children we serve.

One of the Head Start staff who picked up some items for a family remarked, "These will be so helpful for our families who are living in a shelter near the school. We don't often get to provide them with so many new items. This is amazing!"

We interviewed Lori to ask about her successes in engaging TransDev employees. Lori outlined her engagement process in four steps:

When asked why she supports Southwest Human Development, Lori commented, "I wholeheartedly agree with the vision of Southwest Human Development: a positive future for every child. As a mother of three, I know the first five years of a child's life are critical, as early childhood sets the stage for success in the future."

Continuing to explain her why, Lori said, "It has been said before, but it takes everyone in a community to help raise a child. I will always do my part to help care for children, as they are our future." Thanks to Lori and the entire TransDev team! They are a true example of the giving spirit.